That's awesome that he's such a good eater. Some snakes refuse to eat with an audience! LOL
Yes, washing your hands before, and especially after handling any reptile is a good idea.
To pick them up, for me, it kind of depends on what they're doing at the moment. If they're crawling around or stretched out, I will gently grasp them around the middle and lift them enough to get another hand in there to help support them. If they're balled up, I try to just sort of scoop them up without trying to make them uncoil. Mostly, just use common sense. "Gentle" is the key.
How to hold them once you have them picked up? Your snake will let you know what it likes. Some will wrap around your hand/arm and just stay there. Some will explore everywhere you allow them to reach. Some will try to escape. Some will wrap around your shoulders/neck and snuggle in for a warm nap. LOL Just have to wait and see what your little guy does!








Reply With Quote